In Sumerian mythology, Nanshe is the goddess associated with reeds, marshes and wisdom.
Nanshe was worshipped especially in the southern Mesopotamian city of Sirara and in the marshy regions around the Persian Gulf. Her connections with water and reeds reflect the environment of Sumer, where canals, wetlands and river branches shaped agriculture and transport.
Nanshe also had important social and ethical responsibilities. Sumerian hymns describe her as a goddess who protects the poor, widows and orphans and judges whether people behave justly. Her wisdom was therefore linked not only to knowledge but also to fair administration.
Nanshe is sometimes mistaken for Enki, the major Sumerian god of wisdom and water. Enki has a much broader cosmic role, while Nanshe is a goddess with a distinctive association with marshlands, social justice and divination.